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“We’re Back on the Ballot” — Saraki Declares PDP Ready for 2027

Published by Samuel Ayomide on March 30th, 2026.

Former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has declared that the outcome of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national convention in Abuja has reaffirmed the party’s readiness to participate fully in the 2027 general elections.

Speaking at the gathering on Sunday, Saraki said recent developments within the party, including judicial backing for its leadership structure and the presence of officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), have strengthened its legitimacy.

According to Premium Times, Saraki noted that the convention marks a turning point for the opposition party, which has been grappling with internal divisions in recent months. He expressed confidence that the PDP now has a credible platform to present candidates across all levels in the next electoral cycle.

“We now have a party that people can no longer dismiss or suggest will not make the ballot. That phase is behind us,” he told delegates, adding that ensuring credible internal processes remains key to sustaining that progress.

He commended party members for maintaining loyalty despite the crisis, pointing to the turnout at the convention as evidence that the PDP remains a viable political force. TheCable also reported that Saraki described the gathering as proof that the party is “alive and repositioning.”

Saraki, however, urged aggrieved members to set aside personal interests and work toward rebuilding unity within the party. He stressed that collective responsibility must take precedence over individual ambitions if the PDP is to regain its footing nationally.

Also addressing delegates, elder statesman and PDP founding member, Sule Lamido, called for a return to the party’s founding ideals of national unity and inclusiveness. He reminded members of the historical circumstances that led to the formation of the PDP in the late 1990s, following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 election.

Lamido emphasised the need for current party leaders to draw lessons from that history, describing himself as a bridge between the founding generation and younger members who did not witness the party’s early struggles.

The convention comes at a critical time for the PDP as it seeks to resolve internal disputes and reposition itself as a credible alternative ahead of the 2027 elections. Observers say the party’s ability to maintain unity after the convention will determine how effectively it can capitalise on the renewed momentum.